How can parents visibly demonstrate prioritising family time over digital work tasks? 

Parenting Perspective 

Set Clear, Visible Boundaries 

Children do not measure a parent’s priorities by what is said, but by what is done. If family time is constantly interrupted by work emails or calls, a child will naturally feel less important than a screen. To counter this, parents must establish clear and visible boundaries. Simple actions, like closing the laptop at dinner time or placing a phone in another room, send a powerful message that family time is protected. These habits communicate far more effectively than words that loved ones come first. 

Announce Your Priorities Intentionally 

A parent can reinforce this message by stating their intention clearly: ‘I will finish this work later; right now is our family time.’ This kind of statement helps a child understand that while work is important, it does not take precedence over family connection. Over time, these small but consistent declarations teach powerful lessons about balance and mutual respect. 

Balance Work Urgency With Presence 

Of course, some work tasks are genuinely urgent and cannot be avoided. In these situations, a parent can show respect by briefly excusing themselves and returning as quickly as possible with their full attention. Explaining, ‘That was an urgent matter for work, but I am back now because you are my priority,’ reassures a child that a necessary exception is not a sign of neglect. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Sacred Duty to Protect the Family 

Islam designates the family unit as a trust, and parents are given the sacred duty to protect and nurture it. This responsibility requires prioritising the family’s spiritual and emotional wellbeing over worldly distractions. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Tahreem (66), Verse 6: 

‘ O you who are believers, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire (of Jahannam) whose fuel is people and stones…’ 

The Sin of Neglecting One’s Family 

The prophetic tradition teaches that failing to provide for and be present with one’s family is a serious spiritual shortcoming. Fulfilling our responsibilities at home is a fundamental part of our faith. 

It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawood, 1692, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘It is sufficient sin for a man that he neglects those whom he is responsible to sustain.’ 

Making Priorities Clear Through Action 

By making their priorities visible through consistent boundaries, verbal reminders, and sincere presence, parents clearly demonstrate that their family comes before their digital work. This approach strengthens bonds, nurtures trust, and teaches children an invaluable lesson: that worldly tasks should never be allowed to overshadow love and responsibility at home.